Whether commuting home from work, or bicycling for exercise or pleasure, riding at night can provide bicycling enthusiasts with a whole new view of—and appreciation for—Los Angeles. However, reduced visibility can put bicyclists at greater risk for getting into an accident with unsuspecting or inattentive motorists. Fortunately, bicyclists can employ a number of safety tips to reduce the risk of accident and injury.

Safety Tips for Night Bicycling

The following safety tips and legal requirements can help keep bicyclists safe when sharing the road with other motorists—even in low-light conditions:

Outfit your bicycle with bright headlights and taillights—both of which are legally required by the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) for nighttime bicyclists. Carry spare bulbs and batteries in case your headlights or taillights go out.

Always wear white or light-colored clothing when bicycling at night, making yourself more visible to other motorists.

Wear reflective wrist bands to ensure that other motorists can see your hand signals.

Add reflectors to your bicycle pedals and make sure to clean them periodically so that they're not obstructed by dirt.

Always ride with the flow of traffic.

Flash your headlight, if necessary, to get the attention of a motorist who is pulling out of a side street.

Were You Injured in a Bicycle Accident?

Even the best safety tips can’t prevent all bicycle accidents—particularly if the accident is caused by a negligent motorist. If you were injured in a bicycle accident, you may be able to pursue compensation for medical bills, damage to your bicycle, and lost wages if your injuries cause you to miss work. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can help you build a strong case and seek the fairest financial award possible. Contact Steinberg Injury Law today for a free, no-obligation evaluation of your case—we've been helping clients in Los Angeles since 1982 and have handled bicycle accident cases just like yours. For additional information, you can also request a free copy of our book, The Seven Big Mistakes to Avoid After a Motorcycle or Bicycle Accident.